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Essential Turkey

Essential Turkey

From $ 1,655 AUD

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Description

See some of the best bits of Turkey – a cultural melting pot that straddles Europe and the Middle East – on this 10-day trip with likeminded travellers. Indulge your senses with traditional Turkish food (don’t forget to try a coffee and some shisha, too!), explore ancient ruins and walk in the footsteps of Marc Antony, Cleopatra and the Trojan army. Dip your toes in the Dardanelles Strait, the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea and sail along the south coast, uncovering the mysteries of ancient sunken cities. With so much on offer, what more could you ask for.

Trip Name
Essential Turkey
Last Updated
1970-01-01
Days
10
Capacity
16
Highlights
  • Eat, swim, chill, repeat – that’s what will happen when you get cruising along Turkey's Mediterranean coastline. The choice is yours if you’d like to go exploring or just relax on deck.
  • Discover one of the best-preserved classics of Ephesus just like Cleopatra and Marc Antony did 2000 years ago – not all Roman ruins are in Italy!
  • Wade through the scenic hot springs at Pamukkale – pure white calcium deposits that cascade down the cliffs overlooking the town, are said to have magical healing properties.
  • Explore the city that straddles the continents and discover its incredible and varied history – the thriving metropolis of Istanbul is where East literally meets West.
  • Learn the history of the Gallipoli Peninsula, and hear the harrowing stories of the ANZACs and one of the most infamous battles of World War I.

Itinerary

ITINERARY CHANGES Our itineraries are updated regularly throughout the year based on customer feedback and to reflect the current situation in each destination. The information included in this Essential Trip Information may therefore differ from when you first booked your trip. It's important that you review this information prior to travel so that you have the latest updates. Due to weather, local conditions, transport schedules, public holidays, political unrest or other factors, further changes may be necessary to your itinerary once in-country. Your group leader or local representative will keep you up to date with any such changes once your trip is underway. OPTIONAL ACTIVITIES A selection of optional activities that have been popular with past travellers are listed in the day-to-day itinerary. This isn't an exhaustive list and should be used as a guide only for some of what might be available. Prices are approximate, are for entrance fees only, and don’t include transport to and from the sites or local guides unless indicated. All activities are subject to availability, and maybe on a join-in basis. It may not be possible to do all the activities listed in the time available at each destination, so some pre-planning for what you are most interested in is advised. When it's recommended that travellers pre-book these activities, look for a note in the Special Information section of the day-to-day itinerary. For most, they can either be organised independently on the day, or let your group leader or local representative know you are interested at the Welcome Meeting and they can assist. Where activities are considered medium or high risk, we work with operators whose safety and credentials we have sighted and assessed. Although it is possible that you may find the same activity cheaper with another operator on the ground, we cannot vouch for the safety or quality of that operator. Medium and high-risk activities not listed above have not been assessed by us and as such our staff and group leader or local representative are unable to assist you with organising these activities. Activities that contravene our Responsible Travel policies are also not listed. Please remember that the decision to partake in any activity not listed is at your own discretion and risk.

Day 1 - Istanbul
Merhaba! Welcome to Istanbul – the metropolis where European and Middle Eastern culture meet. You’ll have an important welcome meeting at 6 pm tonight to meet your local leader and fellow travellers. Until then, maybe get out into the city streets and wander around or go hunting for a real doner kebab and some authentic Turkish delight (which pairs nicely with a cup of Turkish coffee). If you arrive a day or two early, maybe consider taking a day trip to Princes’ Islands. After the meeting tonight, why not head out for dinner with your group and get a taste of the fabulous local cuisine.
Day 2 - Canakkale
This morning, jump on a bus and ferry to the shores of Gallipoli – a significant peninsula for Australians and New Zealanders. A place of pilgrimage for many, it’s hard to imagine the now calm waters and peaceful landscape as the site of such a brutal battle back in World War I. Take in the reverence and serenity of the area and hear the stories of heroism and mateship that shone through the tragedies of war. You'll spend tonight in Canakkale – a popular university town – so you won’t have a hard time finding something fun to do tonight. Whether you’re chilling on the shore of the Dardanelles with a drink or checking out a local band with some of your travel pals, there’s plenty to keep you occupied in this coastal city.
Day 3 - Ayvalik
Up for learning a little about ancient history and mythical heroes? This morning, you’ll have the option to take an excursion out to the ruins of Troy – the famed walled city infiltrated by the Greeks after they hid in the enormous Trojan Horse. Explore the ancient walls, climb around the 4500-year-old ruins and look out across the Troad (the Plains of Troy) towards the Dardanelles and the hills of the Gallipoli Peninsula. Later, drive down the coast to Ayvalik, where your leader will take you on a walk to discover the town's fascinating mix of Greek and Turkish cultures. You’ll also visit the ladies at Copmadam – a local social enterprise that employs local women who upcycle waste and produce accessories and homewares. For lunch, snack on a local Ayvalik tost (a Turkish-style toasted sandwich with all the trimmings).
Day 4 - Ayvalik
Today is yours to explore Ayvalik. On the edge of the Aegean Sea, there is no shortage of beautiful spots to hang out in your free time. Stroll through the cobblestone backstreets and check out the rows of terracotta-roofed houses and lively cafes. Kucukkoy’s Greek stone houses, art galleries and delicious pastries are worth checking out. You could also head out to one of the many beaches in the area (like Sarımsakli and Badavut) or head out to Cunda Island, filled with Greek Orthodox churches. Tonight, you can join your group for an optional dinner where you could try some raki or balik with some of your travel crew. Set around a harbour, what better way to kick off the evening than with a drink at a harbour-side bar looking out to the Aegean Islands? As the locals say, “raki, balik, Ayvalik!””
Day 5 - Selcuk
This morning, take a local bus to the town of Selcuk. When you arrive, take an orientation walk to get your bearings. Later, you can head out to the nearby ruins of Ephesus and explore the streets once walked by Marc Antony and Cleopatra. This is one of the best-preserved Greco-Roman classical cities in the world. You’ll be amazed by the sophistication of this ancient city, which had running water, public toilets, in-house heating, a medical institute and Roman baths. The theatre is also well preserved, but it’s the library that’s perhaps the coolest structure. Nearby are the remains of the Temple of Artemis – one of the Seven Wonders of the Ancient World.
Day 6 - Pamukkale
Travel east inland to Pamukkale, which literally translates to 'cotton castle'. Here, spectacular natural hot springs with a high calcium content cascade over the edge of the cliffs, creating bright white terraces, or ‘cotton’. Why not take a dip and snap some pics – these springs have been used as a spa since the second century BC and its waters are said to have healing properties. If you’ve got Cleopatra on the mind after yesterday’s stories, take a walk in the ancient city of Hierapolis and enjoy a dip in what used to be her old pool, soaking in the transparent springs that were sculpted for her as a gift from Marc. You can also check out the other ruins of the city – Hierapolis is known for its abundance of temples and religious structures, and the amphitheatre shouldn’t be missed. If you're lucky, tonight you might catch an epic sunset from the acropolis.
Day 7 - Kas
Today, make your way south to the coast of Turkey to see the whitewashed buildings of Kas. Right on the shore of the Mediterranean Sea, you’ll be able to explore this area and its Old Town this afternoon. You could be lazing by the beach and taking in the views out over the sea, swimming in the clear turquoise waters or wandering through the Ancient City of Antiphellos. This area has been inhabited since the 4th century, so make sure to soak in some of the incredible history while you’re here. As the sun sets, ask your leader for some local dinner recommendations and feast on local delights in a restaurant tucked away in a corner of the Old Town.
Day 8 - Southern Coast Sailing / Kas
Sailing in the Mediterranean is on a lot of people’s bucket lists for a reason, and today you get to tick it off yours. Jump in a boat and sail along the Turkish coast for the day, discovering the mysterious sunken ruins of an ancient Lycian city, exploring rock tombs, swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the Mediterranean and cruising along this incredible coastline. After a day of swimming, soaking up the sun, eating a delicious homemade meal and exploring ancient lost worlds, head back to Kas for a free evening.
Day 9 - Antalya
After breakfast, hop on a public bus to Antalya – the capital of the Turkish Mediterranean. It’s hard to get a bad photo of Antalya with its cobblestone streets, historic Old City, vibrant marina and the Taurus Mountains framing the city. Head around town with your group leader, maybe jump on the old Nostalgic Tram or go to Konyaalti Beach for some more time chilling out beachside. If you are in the mood for some last-minute history, check out some of the best museums in the country, or get theatrical at Aspendos ancient city with a beautiful, intact theatre from Roman times. Tonight, why not stake out some food and shisha with your group – Antalya has a thriving nightlife scene, so take advantage.
Day 10 - Antalya
Your adventure comes to an end today in the beautiful city of Antalya. Say your farewells to your new travel buddies and head off whenever you’re ready. Not ready to leave yet? Check in with your leader for any hot tips to make the most of your extended stay. If you need to organise extra accommodation, just get in touch with your booking agent ahead of time. 

Trip Dates

StartEndPrice FromRoom Type
15-03-202524-03-2025AUD $ 1,655-
05-04-202514-04-2025AUD $ 1,655-
19-04-202528-04-2025AUD $ 1,655-
26-04-202505-05-2025AUD $ 1,655-
30-04-202509-05-2025AUD $ 1,655-
03-05-202512-05-2025AUD $ 1,655-
10-05-202519-05-2025AUD $ 1,655-
17-05-202526-05-2025AUD $ 1,655-
24-05-202502-06-2025AUD $ 1,655-
31-05-202509-06-2025AUD $ 1,655-
07-06-202516-06-2025AUD $ 1,655-
14-06-202523-06-2025AUD $ 1,655-
21-06-202530-06-2025AUD $ 1,655-
28-06-202507-07-2025AUD $ 1,655-
02-07-202511-07-2025AUD $ 1,720-
05-07-202514-07-2025AUD $ 1,720-
09-07-202518-07-2025AUD $ 1,720-
12-07-202521-07-2025AUD $ 1,720-
16-07-202525-07-2025AUD $ 1,720-
19-07-202528-07-2025AUD $ 1,720-
26-07-202504-08-2025AUD $ 1,740-
30-07-202508-08-2025AUD $ 1,720-
02-08-202511-08-2025AUD $ 1,720-
09-08-202518-08-2025AUD $ 1,720-
13-08-202522-08-2025AUD $ 1,720-
16-08-202525-08-2025AUD $ 1,785-
23-08-202501-09-2025AUD $ 1,785-
27-08-202505-09-2025AUD $ 1,785-
30-08-202508-09-2025AUD $ 1,785-
06-09-202515-09-2025AUD $ 1,785-
10-09-202519-09-2025AUD $ 1,785-
13-09-202522-09-2025AUD $ 1,785-
17-09-202526-09-2025AUD $ 1,785-
20-09-202529-09-2025AUD $ 1,785-
24-09-202503-10-2025AUD $ 1,785-
27-09-202506-10-2025AUD $ 1,785-
01-10-202510-10-2025AUD $ 1,785-
04-10-202513-10-2025AUD $ 1,785-
08-10-202517-10-2025AUD $ 1,785-
11-10-202520-10-2025AUD $ 1,785-
18-10-202527-10-2025AUD $ 1,720-
22-10-202531-10-2025AUD $ 1,720-
25-10-202503-11-2025AUD $ 1,720-
01-11-202510-11-2025AUD $ 1,720-
08-11-202517-11-2025AUD $ 1,720-
14-03-202623-03-2026AUD $ 1,735-
28-03-202606-04-2026AUD $ 1,735-
04-04-202613-04-2026AUD $ 1,735-
11-04-202620-04-2026AUD $ 1,735-
18-04-202627-04-2026AUD $ 1,735-
22-04-202601-05-2026AUD $ 1,735-
25-04-202604-05-2026AUD $ 1,735-
02-05-202611-05-2026AUD $ 1,735-
09-05-202618-05-2026AUD $ 1,735-
16-05-202625-05-2026AUD $ 1,735-
23-05-202601-06-2026AUD $ 1,735-
30-05-202608-06-2026AUD $ 1,735-
06-06-202615-06-2026AUD $ 1,735-
13-06-202622-06-2026AUD $ 1,735-
20-06-202629-06-2026AUD $ 1,735-
27-06-202606-07-2026AUD $ 1,735-
01-07-202610-07-2026AUD $ 1,735-
04-07-202613-07-2026AUD $ 1,735-
08-07-202617-07-2026AUD $ 1,735-
11-07-202620-07-2026AUD $ 1,735-
15-07-202624-07-2026AUD $ 1,735-
18-07-202627-07-2026AUD $ 1,735-
25-07-202603-08-2026AUD $ 1,735-
29-07-202607-08-2026AUD $ 1,735-
01-08-202610-08-2026AUD $ 1,735-
08-08-202617-08-2026AUD $ 1,735-
12-08-202621-08-2026AUD $ 1,735-
15-08-202624-08-2026AUD $ 1,735-
22-08-202631-08-2026AUD $ 1,735-
26-08-202604-09-2026AUD $ 1,735-
29-08-202607-09-2026AUD $ 1,735-
05-09-202614-09-2026AUD $ 1,735-
09-09-202618-09-2026AUD $ 1,735-
12-09-202621-09-2026AUD $ 1,735-
16-09-202625-09-2026AUD $ 1,735-
19-09-202628-09-2026AUD $ 1,735-
23-09-202602-10-2026AUD $ 1,735-
26-09-202605-10-2026AUD $ 1,735-
30-09-202609-10-2026AUD $ 1,735-
03-10-202612-10-2026AUD $ 1,735-
07-10-202616-10-2026AUD $ 1,735-
10-10-202619-10-2026AUD $ 1,735-
17-10-202626-10-2026AUD $ 1,735-
21-10-202630-10-2026AUD $ 1,735-
24-10-202602-11-2026AUD $ 1,735-
31-10-202609-11-2026AUD $ 1,735-
07-11-202616-11-2026AUD $ 1,735-

Accommodation

Hotel (4 nights),Pension (3 nights),Multi-share guesthouse (2 nights)

Transport

Ferry,Local bus,Private Bus,Boat,Tram

Map

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